Sean Ray has resigned as player-manager of Hastings United just three days before the start of the new season.

The Ryman division one south club confirmed Ray, 32, had offered his resignation and it had been accepted by the club's directors.

Ray guided United on a money-spinning FA Cup run to the third round last season but also relegation from the Ryman premier. Assistant manager Mark Stapley and Terry White will take charge of team affairs when Hastings begin their campaign at Chipstead.